“The UMF™ grading system appraises natural markers found in Mānuka honey, and
assures purity & quality. The rating is called UMF™, which stands for Unique Manuka Factor. The UMF™ rating reflects the concentration of MGO.
The UMF™ grading system measures the unique signature compounds that
science has proven to be found in genuine Mānuka honey from New Zealand.
The UMF™ quality trade mark shows that a product has been tested by an
independent laboratory which has confirmed it contains these signature
compounds.
The UMF™ grading system is based on the concentration of Manuka within the honey. The number is made up of three chemical markers that indicate the content of this honey to ensure purity and quality. For more information visit www.umf.org.nz/grading-system
Manuka honey is rare as the Manuka bush is native to New Zealand and only produces nectar for 3-4 weeks a year. On top of this, our hives are in extremely remote, hard to reach locations, and the Manuka honey itself is more challenging for the beekeepers to extract. It is even rarer to produce Manuka honey with a high concentration of MGO, meaning the demand for high-grade UMF™ impacts the price.
Methylgyoxal (MGO), an amazing sugar molecule found in most honeys in small quantities – is up to 100 times stronger in Manuka honey. Additionally, Manuka honey has a very limited harvest period and can only be collected at certain times of the year.
Manuka honey has been enjoyed by women for years, both while pregnant and breastfeeding, with no reported issues.
While honey is safe for most children, it is not suitable for infants under 1 year of age.
We recommend storing Manuka Honey below 23C (73F).
We cream our Manuka honey, to keep it smooth – however, it is normal for the honey to naturally crystallise if it has been exposed to hot temperatures and then cools down.
As honey contains natural sugars, including fructose and glucose, it is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before consuming honey products.
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